Kolkata doctor's rape-murder case: Nationwide strike by doctors underway, NCW flags lapses in probe
Kolkata: The 24-hour nationwide strike called by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in response to the rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital began at 6 am on August 17, 2024.
The strike, which will continue until 6 am on August 18, has led to the suspension of non-emergency health services across the country.
However, essential services such as emergency care and critical treatments remain operational.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has submitted a preliminary report highlighting significant lapses in the hospital's security, infrastructure, and the ongoing investigation into the incident. According to the report, the hospital lacked basic security measures, proper facilities for female staff, and sufficient protection for on-call interns and doctors, especially during night shifts.
The case, now being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was transferred from the Kolkata Police by the Calcutta High Court on August 13.
The investigation follows accusations of a cover-up, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleging deliberate attempts to destroy evidence by spreading misinformation.
As the strike continues, outpatient department (OPD) services in hospitals across states such as West Bengal, Punjab, and Jharkhand have been significantly affected, with private hospitals and doctors also joining the protest. The IMA has called for a timely investigation and justice for the victim.
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4 workers die after being buried under coal slurry in Jharkhand's Dhanbad
Dhanbad (Jharkhand) (PTI): At least four workers died after being buried under coal slurry in Jharkhand's Dhanbad district on Saturday, a police official said.
The incident took place at Moonidih coal washery in the command area of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL).
"Bodies of all four workers were dug out of debris during a rescue operation," Putki police station in-charge Waqar Hussain told PTI.
The incident took place when coal slurry was being loaded into trucks by workers, during which a large chunk of slurry fell and trapped several workers underneath, officials said.
The deceased have been identified as Manik Bauri, Dinesh Bauri, Deepak Bauri, and Hemlal Gope.
Meanwhile, the family members of the deceased and local villagers placed the bodies in front of the washery gate and began a protest.
They demanded compensation, jobs for dependents and action against those responsible for the incident.
Police and administration officials are trying to pacify the protesters, an official said.
